Morphological characters and geographical distribution are the same as those of the family.

A third species, Biebersteinia multifida Candolle, reaches the eastern limit of its distribution near the western borders of China, and it is possible that it may yet be found in China. It is a species with a tuberous rhizome 2-4 cm in diam., 3-pinnatisect leaves with linear segments, and flowers in lax paniculate inflorescences.

All species of Biebersteinia possess a characteristic odor and are viscid to the touch. They all have medicinal properties and are used by the local people to some degree.